The Top 10 Best Places to PCS

Every service member or military family has their own unique combination of needs and preferences that shape their perspective of an ideal Permanent Change of Station location. From dreams of warm, tropical weather to visions of faraway locations full of new cultural experiences, the military is a great way to experience much of the world.

Each of these ten installations is known for having a community and culture that make them among the most requested PCS locations in the world!

10. Naval Air Station Key West (Florida)

It isn’t hard to understand why someone would want to be stationed in Key West. Aside from minor weather annoyances (you know, hurricanes and all), there are beautiful beaches and gorgeous sunshine to look forward to. For military families, there are plenty of attractions within driving distance of the area surrounding NAS Key West.

Are you dreaming of spending your weekends on the beach? NAS Key West may be the ideal location for you.

9. Naval Station Rota (Spain)

While international travel isn’t for every service member or military family, an assignment to Rota, Spain offers the opportunity to experience one of the most sought-after historical areas of Europe. Having continental Europe within driving or rail distance is a pretty solid perk, and PCSing to the Naval Station Rota can make that dream come true.

8. Kaiserslautern (Germany)

Just like Rota, Kaiserslautern allows the globetrotting military members and families an opportunity to experience the wonders of Germany. This includes scenic landscapes, rich history and Christmas decorations done like nowhere else! Enjoy easy travel to multiple European countries and embrace the opportunity to really try something new.

More Like This: Moving to Kaiserslautern but still need to find military housing? Check out the numerous Kaiserslautern Military Community Homes and Apartments For Rent or Sale.

7. Naval Base San Diego

Heading back stateside, NB San Diego is a consistent favorite thanks to year-round mild weather and exciting city culture. As one of the more urban installation locations, service members and military families enjoy access to the finer things that a city can offer, such as extensive restaurants, shopping opportunities and an endless list of fun activities.

Discover Naval Base San Diego Homes and Apartments For Rent or Sale if you plan to move to this area!

6. Luke Air Force Base (Arizona)

If winter isn’t really your thing, Arizona is a great place to be! Luke AFB’s location is in the suburbs of Phoenix, providing added access to the benefits of urban living as a bonus. Enjoy the perfect combination of a hometown feel while also having enough to do to keep both bachelors and families entertained.

Military housing goes quickly in this area, so don’t wait to find homes for sale or rent!

5. Joint Base Lewis- McChord (Washington)

Joint Base Lewis- McChord (JBLM) follows a similar profile of mild weather and easy access to the cities of Tacoma and Seattle. This combination has proved popular with service members throughout each branch of the military. Despite its rainy reputation, JBLM living is a consistent top three on many service member’s requested duty stations.

4. Andrews Air Force Base (Washington D.C.)

Despite a high cost of living compared to the rest of the United States, the central location of Andrews AFB makes it a favorite for many PCSing service members. Easy access to all that the District of Columbia has to offer in the way of museums, historical sites and professional opportunities makes Andrews AFB worth the hassle of the area’s traffic.

Find off-base Andrews AFB military housing options for rent or sale with the help of AHRN.

3. Fort Carson (Colorado)

Towering mountains, bright blue skies and breathtaking views are listed as just a few of the reasons for the popularity of the Fort Carson Army Base. For the outdoor-loving service member or military family, it would be difficult to find more opportunities anywhere else for hiking, kayaking, camping and running.

Immerse yourself in nature and find your perfect Fort Carson military home during your PCS.

2. Joint Forces Command Naples (Italy)

The fact that this installation is located in Italy makes it one of the top picks for military members who are open to an Outside of the Continent United States (OCONUS) PCS. The combination of international flavor, the historical city and gorgeous surroundings makes Joint Forces Command Naples a tough choice to beat. You can’t overlook the authentic Italian cuisine either!

1. Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam (Hawaii)

Topping the PCS Dream List are the sandy beaches, blue waters and sunny skies of JB Pearl Harbor Hickam in Hawaii. While the cost of living in Hawaii is cited as a challenge, the chance to enjoy island life is an opportunity that many cannot turn down.

Get a head start on your move to Hawaii by securing off-base military housing as soon as possible.

Learn More About Military Bases & The PCS Process

Going through a Permanent Change of Station is tough enough without having to take a guess at what steps need to be completed to actually move. Download the Complete PCS Toolkit and review our Complete PCS Guide with Tips as you begin to plan the logistics of your move.

You can also Ensure a Smooth PCS Move with a Home Inventory Checklist because keeping track of your items as you move will protect you if items become lost, stolen, or damaged.